"Shah Rukh came to me after the release of the film and said, 'Thank you for making the film look so beautiful and thank you for making me look so good in the film," Anushka said over phone.

The actress was also elated to find that her performance was liked by the veteran filmmaker Yash Chopra. "Yashji also liked my performance in the film and nothing feels better than this for me," says Anushka.

The erstwhile unknown 19-year-old ramp model was picked up by Yash Raj camp to play the lead opposite Shah Rukh Khan for their ambitious project, but the success of the film has made her an overnight star. The film is still riding high even three weeks after its release.

Anushka finds herself lucky to work with Bollywood's megastar.

"Despite being a big star, Shah Rukh is very down to earth. I was completely blown over by his passion, dedication and enthusiasm that he brings in his work. I have always respected him but his dedication towards his work has made me respect him more than ever," She says.

The ramp model was kept away from media by the Yash Raj and hers was one of the most awaited debut of 2008.

"Honestly, it is for the first time that I am giving interviews so it has been a bit hectic for me since the film released. But I am happy as I get to hear something nice about the film every time," she says.

The actress was so anxious to get a first hand experience of audience reaction to her first movie that she went for a secret viewing of the film.

"I went to Chandan theatre and left before the film was about to end. It was a great feeling to know their reaction. They were laughing, clapping and whistling throughout the film. It was one of the most amazing moments for me," says Anushka.

Talk about the constant comparisons between her and South Indian actress Asin, who made her debut in Hindi cinema with 'Ghajini'opposite Aamir Khan, Anushka says, "It is unfair to compare Asin and me and for that matter any other actor. It is such a subjective thing.

"Two actors have different sensibilities and they have different films. Some like you and some don't. We all have our favourites," she says dismissing that she is facing any competition with the new stars.

Opposed to the critics blasting the film, Anushka seemed happy with their response to her performance.

"Honestly, critics have been nice to me, even those who have not liked the film wrote positively about my performance. So I would say that they have been good to me," Anushka said.

The pair of Shah Rukh and Aditya Chopra had united after a long time. 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi' is their third film together.

Anushka portrayed the character of vivacious Punjabi girl 'Taani' in the film, who is forced to marry a simpleton after a tragedy. But she falls in love with another man. Both these characters have been played by Shah Rukh Khan.

Asked about her favourite of the two – the simpleton Surinder Sahni and the extrovert Raj, Anushka says, "I think Surinder is closer to my heart. He is honest and lovable. The ideal many for any woman. Though I am not in love with him in the film but in reality I fell in love with this character."

As for the future is concerned, Anushka has already has a three films deal with Yash Raj in her kitty.

"I have a three films deal with Yash Raj but Aditya is very clear that I can sign films outside the banner. I can come back and do his film anytime I want," Anushka said.

The actress, who never thought to become an actress, is already enjoying her newfound star status.